SOMERVILLE, N.J., Oct. 4, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Ethicon, Inc., a worldwide leader in surgical care, has announced its entrance into the barbed suture market with the launch of its new portfolio of STRATAFIX Knotless Tissue Control Devices, representing the next evolution in wound closure technology. With significantly more points of fixation than traditional sutures, STRATAFIX Devices give surgeons more consistent control over every pass (through the tissue), and combine the strength and security of interrupted closure with the efficiency of continuous closure.

The technical advancements of STRATAFIX Devices provide multiple clinical advantages for surgeons. The anchors running along the length of the device prevent it from loosening, making it easier for surgeons to control tension and maintain approximation, without assistance. The anchors also eliminate the need to tie knots, removing the possibility of knot-related complications and allowing surgeons to operate more efficiently. STRATAFIX Devices allow surgeons to close wounds substantially faster than when using an interrupted technique, meaning that patients also require less time under anesthesia.

For over a century, Ethicon has led technology advancements in surgical sutures and wound-closure devices. With the introduction of its new portfolio of STRATAFIX Devices, the company continues its tradition of innovation by bringing that trust, quality, and reliability to new surgical frontiers.

"The STRATAFIX portfolio paves the way for the development of entirely new surgical approaches that will transform the surgeon's tissue repair and restoration experience, representing the future of wound closure," says Tim Schmid, President, U.S. at Ethicon. "This product launch demonstrates our commitment to making investments in technology that will advance surgery. By utilizing Ethicon's global reach and partnerships, we can bring the benefits of barbed suturing technology to more patients than previously possible."

This fall, Ethicon will introduce STRATAFIX Spiral devices, the first products in the STRATAFIX portfolio. Additional products are expected to be available as early as next year as the portfolio is expanded.

About EthiconThe Ethicon brand is used for the products of Ethicon, Inc. and Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., two companies with long histories of medical innovation, which provide globally a broad range of surgical technologies and products (including sutures, staplers, clip appliers, trocars and meshes) used to treat colorectal and thoracic conditions, women's health conditions, hernias, cancer and obesity. Ethicon, Inc. and Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. are part of the Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies.